Hochul Announces $10M In Grant Funding For Downtown Valley Stream

VALLEY STREAM, NY — The Village of Valley Stream is set for a $10 million windfall after an announcement by Gov. Kathy Hochul that the village would be the recipient of a downtown revitalization grant.

The $10 million funding award comes as part of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), a state program that awards communities for being “pro-housing.” To date, that DRI funding has been part of a state push that has helped create over 5,000 new units of housing and helped fund about $9 million in affordable or free childcare and worker training, the governor’s office said.

“Downtowns and Main Streets are powerhouses for localities, and any investments toward them shape the business and recreational scene for residents and visitors — that’s why the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are so impactful,” Governor Hochul said. “These transformational projects in Valley Stream and Patchogue are a commitment to Long Island’s future, where we will secure walkable downtowns, affordable housing, support for the arts and so much more. I’ll always keep fighting for Long Island.”

Joining Hochul Wednesday were State Assemblymembers Michaelle Solages and Judy Griffin, who both touted the award as a major win for Valley Stream. In her remarks, Solages said the funding would support the construction of a more “walkable, connected” Valley Stream.

“Valley Stream is the gateway to Long Island: a diverse community filled with families and small businesses who will benefit from this initiative,” Solages said. “Through this funding, we will build a more walkable, connected community while supporting local economic growth and ensuring our beloved village receives the updated infrastructure that it deserves.”

For her part, Griffin said she was “truly grateful” for the state funds that would be pouring into Valley Stream.

“This will be a game-changer for this over 100 year old village and I am proud to have played a role in bringing it to fruition,” Griffin said. “I am excited to see the many ways this vibrant community and downtown village hub will be enhanced. Already a well-planned and attractive residential, business, recreational and commuter community, Valley Stream will further become a dynamic destination for shoppers, diners, and patrons - offering new employment and residential opportunities.”